HARVEST, Alabama - The Sparkman High School community is mourning a loss today following the death of a student.

Brittany Vann (WHNT News 19)

Senior Brittany Vann died Sunday after a six-month battle with liver cancer. She was 17 years old.

The
teen, described as spirited and strong-willed by friends, was granted
an honorary diploma by Sparkman High officials a few weeks ago,
according to The Huntsville Times' news partner, WHNT News 19.

"We
are deeply saddened by Brittany's death," Geraldine Tibbs, a Madison
County Schools spokeswoman, wrote in a statement released Monday
afternoon. "Brittany will be missed by the Sparkman High School family,
community and all that knew her."

The statement offered Vann's family thoughts, prayers and any help the district could offer.

Vann was diagnosed with Stage IV liver cancer in October, according to a Facebook page,
"Pray for Brittany," that was established to update family and friends
on her progress. At that point, the page shows, the cancer had already spread to her
lungs, stomach, ovaries, uterus, colon, and intestines.

She underwent treatment, including chemotherapy, to no avail.

"Brittany now has her wings," her family posted on Facebook Sunday morning. "She is healed! Please pray for our family."

Vann's
funeral arrangements were handled by Berryhill Funeral Home in
Huntsville. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and the
funeral will be at 1 p.m. on Wednesday.